replace
rih-PLAYS
Replace (verb) means to put something new in the place of something old, broken, or lost. Example: “We need to replace the broken window before winter.”
verb
1
To put something new in the place of something old, broken, or lost.
"We need to replace the broken window before winter."
"The old manager was replaced within a week."
"I had to replace my phone after dropping it in the sink."
2
To put something back in its original place.
"Please replace the books on the shelf when you're finished."
"After using the hammer, replace it in the toolbox."
"He replaced the receiver and walked away from the phone."
How to use replace
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo swap one thing for another, or to put something back where it was.
Common pairings
replace a part
replace with
nothing can replace
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Word forms
- Third person singular
- replaces
- Past tense
- replaced
- Archaic forms
- replacest, replacedst, replaceth
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
We need to _____ the broken window before winter.
Etymology
From re-, "again," plus place.
Synonyms
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Rhymes for replace
See all rhymes for replace →Frequently asked questions
What does “replace” mean?
The word “replace” means to put something new in the place of something old, broken, or lost. In plain terms, to swap one thing for another, or to put something back where it was.
How do you pronounce “replace”?
“Replace” is pronounced rih-PLAYS (/ɹɪˈpleɪs/ in IPA).
How do you use “replace” in a sentence?
Here is “replace” used in a sentence: “We need to replace the broken window before winter.”
What is another word for “replace”?
Words with a similar meaning to “replace” include swap.
What part of speech is “replace”?
“Replace” is a verb.
Is “replace” a common word?
“Replace” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A2 level.
How many meanings does “replace” have?
“Replace” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to put something new in the place of something old, broken, or lost.
What is the difference between replace and repair?
To repair is to fix something that is broken so the original can keep working. To replace is to remove it entirely and put a new one in its place. You repair a leaking tap by mending it; you replace it by fitting a brand-new tap. Repairing keeps the old item, replacing swaps it out.
What is the difference between replace and substitute?
Replacing usually means a permanent swap: the new thing takes over for good, like replacing a worn tire. Substituting is often temporary or situational, putting one thing in for another for a while, as a stand-in. A substitute teacher covers for a day; a replacement teacher takes the job permanently.
What is an example of replacing something?
Everyday examples include replacing a dead battery with a fresh one, replacing a cracked phone screen, or replacing a broken window pane. It also applies to people and ideas: a company replaces a retiring employee with a new hire, and new evidence can replace an outdated theory.
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